Some cigars are crafted to impress. Others are crafted to transcend. The Plasencia Alma del Cielo belongs firmly in the latter category.
Translated as “Soul of the Sky,” Alma del Cielo represents Plasencia’s pursuit of refinement at the highest level—where balance, subtlety, and craftsmanship take precedence over sheer strength. This is not a cigar designed to overwhelm the palate. It is a cigar designed to elevate the experience.
A Philosophy, Not Just a Blend
Plasencia has long been known for its seed-to-cigar approach, controlling every step of production from soil to smoke. With Alma del Cielo, that philosophy reaches its most delicate expression.
The cigar is blended with a focus on high-altitude tobacco, grown in cooler climates where slower maturation enhances complexity and aroma. These conditions encourage nuanced flavors rather than aggressive power, resulting in a cigar that feels composed, intentional, and almost meditative.
Flavor Profile: Elegance Over Intensity
From the first draw, Alma del Cielo sets itself apart with a refined opening. The smoke is silky and aromatic, carrying notes that evolve gradually rather than arriving all at once.
Common tasting notes include:
- Soft cedar and aged wood
- Creamy almond and toasted nuts
- Hints of white pepper and baking spice
- Subtle sweetness reminiscent of honey or light caramel
As the cigar progresses, the flavors deepen without ever becoming harsh. Strength remains firmly in the medium range, allowing the smoker to stay engaged without fatigue.
Construction and Burn
Construction is exactly what you would expect from Plasencia at this level—flawless. The wrapper is smooth and visually pristine, the draw is effortless, and the burn line remains razor-sharp with minimal touch-ups.
Ash holds firm and compact, reinforcing the impression that this cigar was built with patience and precision.
Best Time to Smoke
Alma del Cielo is a cigar best enjoyed when distractions are minimal. Early evening, late night, or a quiet afternoon are ideal moments to fully appreciate its subtleties.
Recommended pairings:
- Aged rum with gentle sweetness
- Light to medium-bodied single malt Scotch
- Champagne or sparkling wine
- Black coffee or espresso
This is a cigar that rewards attention. Rushing it does it a disservice.
Final Thoughts
Plasencia Alma del Cielo is not about making a statement—it’s about creating a moment. It speaks to smokers who value balance, craftsmanship, and quiet confidence over brute force.
For those who appreciate cigars as an art form rather than a contest of strength, Alma del Cielo earns its place as a standout in Plasencia’s portfolio—and a reminder that sometimes the most powerful experiences are the most restrained.
Rating: ★★★★½
Ideal For: Reflective smokers, refined palates, special moments without ceremony
Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir 2022
For this tasting, I paired the cigar with Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir 2022, a richly textured California Pinot Noir that beautifully complements the nuanced profile of the Alma del Cielo. This wine opens with layers of ripe dark fruit—cranberry, raspberry, and blackberry—interwoven with baking spice and cedar-driven complexity, delivering a lush, velvety palate and a warm, structured finish. The General Wine Company
The wine’s vibrant fruit and refined tannins enhance the cigar’s softer cedar and almond notes, while its subtle spice and earthiness echo the gentle pepper and cream in the smoke. Together, they form a refined balance of fruit, spice, and smooth texture—a pairing that elevates both the wine and cigar experience.
